LATIN (ONLY)*

*The Classics Department offers Latin only or a combination of Latin and Classical Greek as options in Years 9-11. For details of the combined Latin/Greek option see under the heading Greek.

Year 9 Course Outline

In Year 9 pupils continue their study of Latin with such varied topics as Egypt, medicine, astrology, superstitions, aqueducts and the baths. Pupils may go on to look at aspects of mythology and its relationship to history, the siege of Troy and the origins of Rome.

Years 10 and 11 Course Outline

Pupils selecting Latin at GCSE level should normally have studied the subject at Year 9. At GCSE, study of the language itself and the investigation of aspects of Roman civilisation continue to run in parallel with each other, with Latin literature a new addition to lessons. The study of actual Roman writers is a particularly interesting and challenging feature of the GCSE. Pupils will also develop their linguistic skills to allow them to translate and answer comprehension questions on short pieces of Latin.

Skills Required and Developed

New pupils are very welcome to opt for Latin although some prior experience of the language would normally be expected. If pupils are intending to start Latin from scratch, their parents should contact the school to discuss the matter with the Head of Department. Such pupils will be expected to undertake the appropriate preparatory work prior to their arrival at PGS.

Latin provides a secure foundation for English and other modern languages as well as being an interesting and challenging area of study in its own right. It also demands highly disciplined thinking and therefore ensures an excellent general training of the mind.

External Assessment

The examination (Eduqas) consists of three papers. There are no non-Examined Assessment coursework.

Latin Language

Unseen translation with sections on mythology and history (1½ hrs)

Latin Literature and Sources Study of literary extracts and images on a particular theme (1¼ hrs)

Latin Literature (Narratives) Translation and commentary on a Latin story in prose or verse (1 hr)

Beyond the Classroom

The department organises a trip to visit the Roman baths in Bath. There is also an annual trip to the British Museum and a biennial trip to Italy or Greece. Pupils are encouraged to take part in the Latin Reading Competition held each year. Trips to Classical plays are also regularly arranged and there are opportunities to help out at Fishbourne Roman Palace.

Further Information

Mr M G D Murray, Head of Classics, Tel 023 9236 0036 ext 326, Email m.murray@pgs.org.uk

Exam Board Website: http://www.eduqas.co.uk/qualifications/latin/eduqas-gcse-latin-spec-from-2016.pdf?language_id=1